Heels Down Happy Hour

It’s our last episode of the year and wow, what a year it’s been. Thanks for everybody for listening. And we’ve got a great show for you tonight, with fun guests who will make you laugh, hopefully teach you something, and inspire you to keep kicking on into 2026. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 143:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Courtesy of Heels DownDrink Recipe: The Classic Eggnog Guest: Dr. Holly HelbigGuest: Sydney Stevenson aka Bookipsies (Find her on Instagram: @bookipsies_)Product Review: Heels Down Holiday Gift Guide | Email Justine at Justine@heelsdownmedia.comSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Zoetis, Horse Spot, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

It’s here! All the goodies on our holiday wish list for 2025. This month, we’re also talking to the founder of a brand new jumping and dressage circuit that wants to be the opposite of USEF. And ever wonder what goes into breed inspections for stallions and foals? You’re about to find out. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 142:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Courtesy of Heels DownDrink Recipe: Werther’s Hot ToddyLink: JJ Torano squeaks out the win in the Maclay Final Link: Mud, Moisture, and Scratches: Fall Skin Challenges You Shouldn’t IgnoreLink: HDHH is in the Washington Post!Guest: Doug Payne of Payne EquestrianGuest: David Reichert of UDJCProduct Review: Heels Down Holiday Gift Guide | Email Justine at Justine@heelsdownmedia.comSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Ecogold (Introducing The Vertical, the latest innovative saddle pad from Ecogold) and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

Spooky season is here! This month, we’re talking about horse health tips you don’t want to skip on during fall, and preparing for the most festive time of the year.Guests and Links Episode 141:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Courtesy of ZoetisDrink Recipe: Pumpkin Spice White RussiansLink: Laura Kraut first female to break the top 10 rankings in yearsLink: One rail keeps Coleman from the win, but Boyd is a class act at Morven Park US Equestrian Open FinalLink: The internet just won’t let horse girl fashion goGuest: Dr. Abby Sage, Equine Technical Services Veterinarian at ZoetisLink: Heels Down Holiday Gift Guide | Email Justine at Justine@heelsdownmedia.comProduct Review: "Buy Less Dewormer Campaign" by ZoetisSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Zoetis and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATIONDo not use Quest Gel or Quest Plus Gel in foals less than 6 months of age or in sick, debilitated and underweight horses. Do not use these products in other animal species, as severe adverse reactions, including fatalities in dogs, may...

Do you ever feel like you love horses but sometimes you feel lost? Or like you’re not good enough? We’ve all been there. This month, we’re talking about how to get yourself in the right headspace on those tough days. Plus, we have the best horse show hacks to share. Thanks for tuning in.Guests and Links Episode 140:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Courtesy of Farah ButtDrink Recipe: Apple Cider SpritzLink: The benefits of standing “square”Link: Kent Farrington is unbeatable in the world cup qualifier in Traverse CityLink: USEF Releases Guidelines To Outline Equine Welfare Best PracticesLink: USEF Approves First General Blood RuleLink: Heels Down Holiday Gift Guide | Email Justine at Justine@heelsdownmedia.comProduct Review: Amend GI All-Natural Stomach Health SupportSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: HorseSpot and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

We’re doing our best to stay caffeinated thanks to a fun new horse brand of coffee. Also this month, we’re talking about our mental prep for the sport, and how do we make the buying and selling process of horses more transparent and accessible for everyone? Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 139:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Courtesy of David Power and Monarch CreativeDrink Recipe: AffogatoGuest: Adam Enger, Founder of Show Jumping WorldGuest: David Power, Show Jumping CoachLink: It was an exciting finish in Arville between Germany and Team USALink: Victoria Colvin shatters records after winning at Derby Finals for the fourth timeLink: Heels Down Holiday Gift Guide | Email Justine at Justine@heelsdownmedia.comProduct Review: Happy Horse CoffeeSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Ecogold and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

Did anyone else watch Mai Baum make his final run at Rebecca Farm and ball their eyes out? Just me? OK. This week, we’re talking about the hunters taking over Europe and sharing out best tips on how to keep thise arenas dragged, pristine and perfect for our horses. Thanks for tuning in.Guests and Links Episode 138:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Courtesy of Yanmar Tractors AmericaDrink Recipe: Hugo Spritz | Full RecipeLink: Mai Baum officially retires from top level eventingLink: The science behind the new USEF hair testing ruleLink: The Baran Classic is such a cool concept, inviting top American hunter pros to Europe and European show jumpers trying their hand at the North American sport of huntersProduct Review: Benefab Therapeutic Pastern Wraps | Benefab Smart Therapeutic Poll PadSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Yanmar, Belt It Out Goods (Coupon code: “heelsdown20” for $20 off), and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

Ellie is fresh off a trip from New Mexico where she learned more about the world of positive reinforcement training about horses. We dive right in to learn more. And we caught up for the Kentucky 3-Day Event 4* winner ahead of his overseas trip to CHIO Aachen. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 137:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekGuest: Will ColemanFeatured Image: Courtesy of Ellie WoznicaDrink Recipe: Sante Fe SunsetLink: The FEI is doubling down on double bridlesLink: Study: Bias Against Thoroughbreds In Upper Level Eventing Is UnfoundedLink: Wild pony born without a hoof gets a prostheticProduct Review: Favorite fly remedies for summer time? | Kinetic Vet roll-on fly spray + dema clothsSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Yanmar, Belt It Out Goods (Coupon code: “heelsdown20” for $20 off), Horse Spot, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

It’s Spring! And we have the latest fashion trends for your riding outfits (hint: there’s no florals). This week, we’re talking about how the Payne’s designed and built their dream barn, and a special friend of the show stops by. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 136:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekGuests: Michael and Lindsay Lenard of The Horse SpotGuest: Sally Spickard of the Go Eventing PodcastFeatured Image: Courtesy of Payne EquestrianDrink Recipe: Michigan Mule Link: Three U.S. Riders, Three Different Paths To World No. 1Link: Aachen entry listProduct Review: Belt It Out Goods - New Spring Colors | Lilac, Spring Green, Willow Blue, Poppy PinkSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Yanmar, Belt It Out Goods (Coupon code: “heelsdown20” dor $20 off through May), SynNutra Equine (SynChill PURE), Traverse City Horse Shows, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

The countdown is on my friends. It’s going to be an action-packed Best Weekend All Year in 2025, thanks to very big five-stars: the Kentucky Three Day Event and the Kentucky Invitational. We’re talking to the riders hoping to conquer some of the biggest eventing and show jumping tracks in America this month. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 135:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekGuest: Will ColemanGuest: Alex GranatoGuest: Mary Bess Davis Featured Image: Traverse City Horse ShowsDrink Recipe: Velvet and Vice from Cast & CrewLink: Kentucky 5* entry list Link: Kentucky Invitational 5* entry list Link: Favorite things to do in LexingtonProduct Review: SynChill PureSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: SynNutra (Livello® Sleep), Traverse City Horse Shows, The Vertical from Ecogold (Coupon code: “happyhour” 15% off through April 25) and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

What makes some ingredients illegal when it comes to supplements and medications and horse showing? This week, we’re talking to a veterinarian on what goes into that process. Spring is here, which means you’re likely inundated with mud, like the rest of us. But don’t fret, we’ve got some tips. Thanks for tuning in...Guests and Links Episode 134:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekGuest: Dr. Edwin “Ted” Simpson, Founder and CEO of SynNutra EquineGuest: Charlotte Jacobs, show jumperFeatured Image: Traverse City Horse ShowsDrink Recipe: St. Patrick's Mint Martini (Thanks to Marlene in our Facebook group and Total Wine) Link: An update on the new FEI noseband testing protocolLink: Game on: USA wins big in the Longines League of Nations OcalaLink: Spring is mud season. Here are some tips to manage itProduct Review: Ecogold + Armatec collab | Coupon code: “happyhour” 15% off through April 25Subscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Traverse City Horse Shows and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

Dreaming of the spring horse show season? Us too. This week, we’re sharing our favorite DIY tips to make training tools you can easily use in your home arena. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 133:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekGuest: Derek Braun, Split Rock Horse ShowsGuest: Danielle Burgess, Founder of InstagroomsFeatured Image: Traverse City Horse ShowsDrink Recipe: Le FrenchLink: Pony conformation class drama Link: Laura Kraut in the show jumping hall of fameProduct Review: DIY Training Tools for Your ArenaSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Traverse City Horse Shows and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

It’s January, and horse sport is in full swing. Whether or not you’re in sunny Florida or just dreaming about it, we’ve got all the updates. As as you gear up for your own riding season, we’ve got somebody who can help visualize your goals. Thanks for tuning in.Guests and Links Episode 132:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekGuest: Dr. Sam FieldingFeatured Image: Heels Down MagazineDrink Recipe: Lychee Mai TaiLink: Nosebands Now Option in Danish DressageLink: Updates from WEF: Richard Vogel, Henrick von Eckermann, Nayel Nassar among the first CSI3* wins of the season so far | Down the road at Adequan Global Dressage Festival, American Olympian Adrienne Lyle is off to a good startLink: How to help equestrians affected by the LA wildfiresProduct Review: Thia Cal from Finish Line Horse Products Subscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Ecogold, All Things Equestrian, Belt It Out Goods, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

Wow, what a year it’s been. This week we’re breaking down the highs and lows and getting excited for what’s in store in 2025. Sit down, grab a drink and join us. And as always, thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 131:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Heels Down MagazineDrink Recipe: Naughty But Nice Christmas Cocktail Subscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: All Things Equestrian, Belt It Out Goods, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

Are you giddy for the holidays? They’ll be here before you know it! This week, we’re sharing our top gift picks for the equestrian in your life and we’re talking about our favorite end-of-year horse shows, from the Royal Winter Fair to the Maclay Finals. Thanks for tuning in.Guests and Links Episode 130:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Heels Down MagazineDrink Recipe: Apple Cider Bourbon PunchLink: The Royal Horse Show - Indoor Eventing winner. Boyd was secondLink: Barn doors open or closed during the winter?Link: Taylor Cawley, 16 year old from Wellington, wins this year’s ASPCA Maclay Final Link: Ecogold: Leaf Pad, fleece exercise boots, new sage green flip half pad colorLink: All Things Equestrian Sun Shirts - English-style | Western-styleLink: Pinsnickety charms and pinsLink: SynNutra Equine SynChill and G-Chill gastric and calming supplementsLink: Draper Therapies Celliant fiber therapy products for horses, humans and dogsLink: Belt it Out Goods: equestrian beltsLink: Purina MQ Equine Microbiome KitLink: The 2024 Heels Down Holiday Gift GuideTrunk ShowSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “

The air is light and crisp and the ponies are fresh. It must be fall! This week, we’re talking about getting those horses fit and why riders in the western world don’t want to wear helmets. Plus we have the perfect razzle dazzle to get your horse in the Halloween mood. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 129:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Heels Down MagazineDrink Recipe: Marshmallow Web Chocolate CocktailLink: Jon Holling Documentary Link: Maryland 5 Star ResultsLink: New Research Identifying Stress in Horses Link: Our Favorite Stories for Our Horse Treats Giveaway from Zero Proof Horse TreatsLink: Use the code “HEELSDOWN” for free shipping plus a free gift!Link: Stencil kits - for Fun or a Little Flair in the Show RingLink: Glitter Hoof PolishLink: Shimmer Body SprayLink: Mane and Tail GelSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: All Things Equestrian, Zero Proof...

Horses have always been expensive. But lately, it feels like costs are out of control. This week, we’re talking about how we’re making ends meet. We’re also celebrating the Paralympic Games and fighting the good fight against imposter syndrome. Guests and Links Episode 128:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Heels Down MagazineDrink Recipe: Lavender LemonadeLink: Para Olympics Round Up Link: Liz Halliday Accident UpdateLink: Burghley and AECs Results?Guest: Amelia NewcombSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: All Things Equestrian, Zero Proof Horse Treats, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

The Paris Olympics have come and gone, and gosh, what a whirlwind! We’re hitting all the highlights, which of course include Snoop Dogg in a shadbelly. This week, we’re also digging into how safety standards in equestrian sport continue to evolve. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 127:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Heels Down MagazineDrink Recipe: Boat House PunchLink: Barn Dog BitesLink: Barn Kat Krunchies (Order using HEELSDOWN to receive free shipping plus a gift!)Link: US Equestrian Announces U.S. Olympic Dressage Team for Paris 2024 Olympic GamesGuest: Anna DunawayLink: Ride EquiSafe's Safe in the Saddle WeekSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: All Things Equestrian, Zero Proof Horse Treats, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

It’s all systems go for the Paris Olympic Games and we just can’t wait. We’re talking to the pros on how to learn from the livestream and what it’s like actually being on an Olympic team. But wait there’s more - we’re busting cooling down horse myths and remember that dude in the mankini? Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 126:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Erin Gilmore PhotographyDrink Recipe: Red, White & Blue ShooterGuest: Amelia Newcomb, DressageGuest: Doug PayneLink: Cooling horses mythsLink: Olympic teams: show jumping and dressageLink: US Equestrian Announces U.S. Olympic Dressage Team for Paris 2024 Olympic GamesLink: Shane Rose headed to Paris despite the mankini episodeLink: All Things Equestrian Sun ShirtsSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: All Things Equestrian, Zero Proof Horse Treats, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

What do we really know about horses’ gut microbiomes? This week, we’re gearing up for the Olympic Games and trying to juggle all the things, like managing horses who live in our back yards. Thanks for tuning in.Guests and Links Episode 125:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Heels Down MagazineDrink Recipe: Watermelon MojitoGuest: Anna Dunaway, PurinaLink: It’s Hot as Heck. What Are Your Hot Weather Tips?Link: Here’s the US Olympic TeamLink: Indoor Arena Air QualityLink: Glittermarx PoniesSubscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Purina, Kinetic Vet, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!

Does your vet want your manure sample room temp or cold? You’ll have to listen in to find out! This week, we’re talking to the 2024 winner of the Road To The Horse. And it’s time for Buy A Horse Book Day! Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 124:Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down MagazineHost: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne EquestrianHost: Ellie Woznica Owner/Trainer of Double Barrel CreekFeatured Image: Heels Down MagazineDrink Recipe: Icy Lemon-Ginger Vodka CocktailGuest: Tik MaynardLink: Kentucky Derby Recap Link: Badminton PreviewLink: Keep the Poop Cold Subscribe: The Brief | Heels Down Spark | Donate | Our PatreonJoin our Facebook Group: Search for “Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast Lounge“This episode is presented by: Purina, Zero Proof Horse Treats, LiveEQ, Kinetic Vet, and listeners like you! Thank you to our sponsors!